#PublishingReinvented 280 The Future of Social Media is Notes? + Our June Challenge Reminder

What is a Substack Note?

I am told this may be the future of social media! Why?

A Substack Note is a short-form post feature on Substack, designed for quick updates, reflections, links, or commentary—similar to tweets or LinkedIn posts but within the Substack ecosystem. It's intended to help writers and creators engage their audience more frequently and casually between newsletters or long-form posts.

Key Characteristics:

• Short and informal: Typically under 300 words.

• Flexible format: Can include text, links, images, or previews of recent posts.

• Engagement-friendly: Readers can "like" and comment, fostering community.

• Visible in-feed: Appears in the Notes tab of the Substack app and site, separate from emails.

• Non-intrusive: Notes are not automatically emailed (unless turned into full posts).

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How to Use Substack Notes Effectively

Here are 10 strategic ways to use Substack Notes:

1. Start Conversations

• Ask questions to spark discussion (e.g., “What’s your go-to book for creative inspiration?”).

• Use polls (if available) or ask for opinions in comments.

2. Share Behind-the-Scenes Content

• Show your writing process, book drafts, or workspace.

• Post short reflections or personal thoughts.

3. Highlight Older Content

• Resurface valuable past newsletters or articles:
  “ICYMI: Here’s my most-read essay on writing routines from last year.”

4. Promote New Posts

• Share your latest article with a hook or quote and a direct link.

5. Cross-Promote Other Writers

• Recommend fellow Substack writers:
  “Just read this powerful piece by @writername—highly recommend!”

6. Link to External Resources

• Curate interesting articles, podcasts, or videos relevant to your niche.

7. Boost Your Personal Brand

• Share quotes, philosophies, or anecdotes that reflect your worldview and tone.

8. Use as a Micro-Blog

• Share micro-essays, one-paragraph stories, or quotes with commentary.

9. Encourage Subscriber Engagement

• Announce subscriber-only events or call for questions for an upcoming post.

10. Stay Top of Mind

• Posting 2–4 times a week keeps your name in front of your audience, even when you're not sending full emails.

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Tips for Better Notes

• Be conversational: Write like you're speaking to a friend.

• Use visuals: A strong image or pull quote increases engagement.

• Add hashtags and mentions: Helps discoverability and connections within Substack.

• Respond to comments: Build community by interacting with your readers.

• Track what resonates: Note which Notes get likes/comments to refine your strategy.

Used well, they can deepen relationships, increase discoverability, and create a more dynamic presence on Substack. Are you doing notes?

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